Mayo Clinic Health Manager
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This medicine usually comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using the medicine.
Before using this medicine, clear the nasal passages by blowing your nose. Then, with the nosepiece inserted into the nostril, aim the spray towards the inner corner of the eye.
In order for this medicine to help you, it must be used regularly as ordered by your doctor. This medicine usually begins to work in about 2 days, but up to 2 weeks may pass before you feel its full effects.
Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. To do so may increase the chance of absorption through the lining of the nose and the chance of unwanted effects.
Check with your doctor before using this medicine for nasal problems other than the one for which it was prescribed, since it should not be used on many bacterial, viral, or fungal nasal infections.
Dosing
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
- For nasal spray dosage form:
- For allergies:
- Adults and children 12 years of age and older—2 sprays in each nostril once a day.
- Children 3 and 11 years of age— 1 spray in each nostril once a day.
- Children younger than 3 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For nasal polyps:
- Adults—2 sprays in each nostril twice a day.
- Children and teenagers—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For sinusitis:
- Adults and children 12 years of age and older—2 sprays in each nostril twice a day.
- Children younger than 12 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
- For allergies:
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not refrigerate. Keep from freezing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.